Health and Wellness

Dr. B.K. Taylor 

Dr. B.K. Taylor is the Assistant Vice President of Health and Wellness overseeing several departments that focus on the well-being of students. They oversee Wellness Promotion, Counseling Services, Student Recreation, Student Health Services, and the CARE Team. They are passionate about promoting health and wellness on campus and help students navigate the various resources available to them. In addition to their work, they enjoy spending time with their partner, as well as their two furry feline friends.

Email: btaylor3@wcupa.edu

Dr. Lisa Montgomery

Dr. Lisa Montgomery serves as the Director of Student Advocacy and Resources within the Office of the Assistant Vice President for Health and Wellness. In this role, Dr. Montgomery provides direct support to students experiencing financial hardship due to unforeseen circumstances, ensuring timely access to critical resources. She also offers comprehensive case management services for both students and faculty, facilitating resolution of various concerns.

Additionally, Dr. Montgomery acts as a key liaison for students seeking guidance, helping them navigate university systems and connecting them with appropriate campus resources. With extensive experience supporting WCU students and their families, including her prior service as the University’s Student Ombuds, Dr. Montgomery brings a deep understanding of student needs and a proven commitment to student success.

Email: Lmontgomery@wcupa.edu

Dr. Lauren Zahour

Lauren serves as the Associate Director of Operations, assisting the Assistant Vice President for Health & Wellness in coordinating operations across four health and wellness departments. She provides non-clinical support to students navigating university absences due to medical, family, or personal emergencies. Lauren also helps students understand university policies and processes, connects them with campus resources, and works closely with students, faculty, and families around course absences. In addition to her student support role, Lauren leads data and assessment efforts, produces reports to guide service improvements, serves as a secondary member of the CARE Team, and oversees the development of health and wellness policies. She brings previous experience in student conduct, residence life, Title IX, and victim advocacy. Outside of work, Lauren enjoys riding her bicycle, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. She holds a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Policy, Planning, and Administration.

Email: lzahour@wcupa.edu

Kristin Yeager

Kristin is the Case Manager for the CARE Team. She works in tandem with the CARE Team on campus to review and implement non- clinical interventions for students. Kristin loves being part of the WCU community and applies her knowledge and expertise in mental health services and case management to ensure that students have all the tools they need to succeed. Kristin is also available to consult with staff and faculty on CARE Team related matters. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors either kayaking, hiking, or tending to her gardens. Kristin holds a B.S. in Human Services and is pursuing her Master’s in Public Administration. 

Email: kyeager@wcupa.edu

Alisa Takala

Alisa serves as the Graduate Intern for the Office of the AVP of Health and Wellness. She assists with the promotion and programming of the office's CARE Team as well as provides non-clinical support for those requiring Student Assistance. Alisa works with the Office of the AVPHW while pursuing her Master of Social Work degree. Beyond her work and program, she enjoys reading, spending time outdoors, and seeing her friends and family.